Art and Design (Photography) A Level - Level 3
Overview
Art and Design (Photography) invites students to explore the dynamic world of image-making, blending technical skills with creative vision. You’ll learn how to capture striking images, from still life and portraiture to abstract and experimental photography, using the latest digital techniques and equipment. This course offers you the opportunity to experiment with composition, lighting, and post-production editing, while also understanding the role photography plays in storytelling, art, and contemporary culture.
As you progress, you will develop a portfolio of work that reflects your personal style and creative ideas, preparing you for further study or a career in the creative industries. This course is ideal for those looking to push boundaries, work independently, and explore new ways of seeing the world through a lens.
What does it combine with?
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What will I study?
- The use of visual elements such as line, form, colour, and texture
- Understanding viewpoint, composition, and camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, depth of field)
- Exploring different photographic genres and styles, both historical and contemporary
- Working to a brief or theme, responding creatively to an issue or concept.
- Technical photography skills
- Understanding of how ideas and feelings are conveyed through images
- Awareness of social, cultural, and historical contexts in photography
- Use of specialist terminology and critical reflection.
Entry requirements
- GCSE English Language and Maths grade 4-9
- An art-related GCSE subject grade 5-9
- Plus two other GCSEs at grade 4-9
- A photography portfolio for approval.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.
How long is the course?
Two years.
How will I be assessed?
- Personal investigation: no time limit, 96 marks, 60% of A-level
- Externally set assignment: preparatory period + 15 hours supervised time, 96 marks, 40% of A-level.
What does the course lead to?
This course develops a broad range of creative, technical, and critical thinking skills, preparing you for both higher education and careers in the creative industries. You will gain practical experience with digital photography, editing techniques, and an understanding of visual communication. This course also builds your ability to analyse and reflect on your work and the work of others, making it an excellent foundation for any creative or visual-based discipline.
What can I progress onto?
- Further study at university-level* in Photography, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Media Studies, Visual Arts, or Film and Television.
- Creative careers such as commercial photography, fashion photography, photojournalism, graphic design, advertising, or digital marketing.
- Art and Design foundation courses, which allow you to further explore creative disciplines before specialising.
- Freelance work in photography, building your own portfolio, or working with clients on projects and commissions.
*As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may qualify for various benefits should you choose to apply to NTU after completing your college course. This could include a Progress NTU offer, where you would receive an offer one grade below their standard offer. For instance, a typical offer for one of their courses might require 128 UCAS tariff points. With Progress NTU, your requirements would be 120 UCAS tariff points. For further details, please call us on 0808 100 3626 or discover more about this benefit here.
Career opportunities
There isn't currently career information listed for this course.
How do I apply?
You don’t need to apply for each A Level course you are interested in individually.
Once we have received your application form we will invite you into college where we will be able to discuss every aspect of the courses you have chosen as well as any alternatives you may be considering.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the areas of the college used for your course choices.